Adhesions

Adhesions are scar tissue that forms between two structures or organs inside the body that are not normally connected to each other. This tissue may bond to nearby surfaces because of inflammation, surgery, or trauma.

For example, scar tissue can develop on the abdominal organs after any abdominal surgery or as a result of inflammation or infection in the abdominal area. Abdominal adhesions can cause pain, blockage, or other problems, depending on where they are located.

If adhesions cause pain and other problems, surgery may be needed to cut the scar tissue and separate the structures or organs, although adhesions may recur after this surgery.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Last Revised

August 1, 2012

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